Ram Navami celebrations draw lakhs to Ayodhya, sun rays perform ‘Surya Tilak’ of Ram Lalla

Ayodhya: Grand celebrations marked Ram Navami in Ayodhya on Sunday, with lakhs of devotees gathering at the Ram Janmabhoomi temple to witness the ‘Surya Tilak’ of Ram Lalla.

The sacred ritual took place at around 12 noon during the Abhijit Muhurat, when sunlight fell directly on the deity’s forehead for approximately four minutes.

Ahead of the ritual, the sanctum sanctorum’s lights were turned off and the temple doors were closed briefly. After the sun’s rays anointed Ram Lalla, a special aarti was performed.

A system made of Ashtadhatu pipes, along with four lenses and four mirrors, was used to precisely direct the sun rays onto the idol’s forehead.

The day began with a panchamrit bath and adorning of Ram Lalla at 9.30 am. Around five lakh devotees are currently present in Ayodhya, leading to long queues, including a one-kilometre line outside the temple complex.

To manage the crowd and provide relief from the heat, the administration has laid red carpets on major routes such as Ram Path, Bhakti Path, Dharma Path, and Ram Janmabhoomi Path.

Drones sprayed Saryu water over devotees, and shaded structures were installed to provide shelter. Railway stations and bus stands are reportedly housefull due to the massive influx of pilgrims.